School is back in session for many of us. As a busy parent, you've purchased their school supplies, bought new school clothes, and signed up for after school activities, but don’t overlook their smile! Back-to-school time is the perfect time to incorporate good oral health habits into your child’s daily routine. Your child’s back-to-school checklist should include:

Regular dental visits

Scheduling twice a year during the school-age years is vital because this is the time where there is great change in the mouth, with kids losing baby teeth and permanent teeth coming in. One of the most common childhood diseases is tooth decay, and left untreated, it can impair a child’s ability to eat, speak, sleep and learn. Studies show that children with dental health issues miss more school and perform worse in their education.

Daily brushing habits

Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and before bed. There is little time to spare for most families on school mornings, and sometimes kids eat their breakfast on the way to school. Brushing before breakfast will help ensure kids brush their teeth before heading off to school.

Healthy lunches and snacks

Pack a healthy lunch and snack for your child. Healthy lunch items and snacks include grains, raw vegetables, yogurt or fruit. If your child eats from the school cafeteria, review healthy food choices with them before the first day of school. Instead of juice and soft drinks, teach your child to drink water.

Safe afterschool activities

Athletics are fun and parents want their children to not only enjoy the competition and recreation, but to be as safe as possible in doing so. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard while participating in organized sports, is essential to protecting your children’s teeth. We offer custom mouthguards to protect your child's smile!